A well-established author will be bringing in the new year with a bang as he celebrates the paperback publication of his latest novel which is inspired by Lancashire.
Matt Cain, author, and leading commentator on LGBT+ issues, is excited for his latest book, Becoming Ted, to be released in paperback next month.
Like his previous titles, it has a strong connection to Bolton, where he was raised.
The Bury-born author, aged 47, said: “I'm really excited about Becoming Ted being published.
“I had a lot of quiet time during the series of lockdowns so put it to good use and did loads of writing.
“In fact, I sometimes joked it was as if I'd paid a lot of money to go on a quiet, secluded writers' retreat with no distractions.
“Now - finally - I'll be able to share the fruits of all my hard work!”
With THREE MONTHS TO GO till #BecomingTed is published, here’s what to expect! You’ll be doing me a big favour if you pre-order the book as this helps build buzz and get retailers excited. Thanks again for your support! ❤️https://t.co/lDCgAITm0D@headlinepg @HeadlineFiction pic.twitter.com/ayaQf1FCh3
— Matt Cain (@MattCainWriter) October 19, 2022
Matt said although the book doesn’t include Bolton, it has a strong link to Lancashire and the main characters name is inspired by a little village in Bolton.
He said: “Key themes in the book are community and the need for human connection and that's why I set the story in Lancashire - I think these are much easier to explore in a setting known for its warm, down-to-earth people.
“I always end up coming back to this part of the world when I write novels - it's what I know, it’s part of my spirit, it helped shape me as a human being and a writer.
“And my work is known for its heart and humour, both of which are qualities I very much associate with Lancashire.
“I’m not sure I could write the same kind of books set anywhere else!
“Ted's surname was inspired by Ainsworth, the village just outside Bolton, where my nana and grandad lived for most of my life.
“My nana recently turned 100 and now lives in a retirement home in Radcliffe."
Away from writing, Matt celebrating getting married earlier this month.
He said: “I got married on Sunday, December 18 and the ceremony happened in London but there was a big Bolton presence.
“A whole coach load of family and friends came down, setting off from Newport Street the day before.
“And we served food and drink that told the stories of our lives. My husband is a South African Jew so we had food stations serving South African braai and Israeli falafels and shawarmas but also Carrs pasties and mushy peas from Bolton!
“And everyone loved them, especially the South Africans!
“We also served Flat Cap ale from Bank Top brewery in Bolton, and this was so popular we actually ran out!
“And my husband Harry made several jokes in his speech about coming from Cape Town and never having heard of Bolton, then travelling up with me and falling in love with the town.
“He can't wait to come back with me to help promote Becoming Ted!”
The book is officially published on January 19 but is available for pre-order online already.
Matt said he is looking forward to hosting signings in Bolton both at the Central Library and Waterstones.
Keep an eye on Matt’s Twitter to find out when the signings will be: @MattCainWriter
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